Module 3: Lesson 4 - Implementing a needs analysis

Question 1

What are some considerations to think about before designing a course syllabus?

Answer 1

• Teaching context: Where will you be teaching? What setting will it be in? Will you be teaching online and one-to-one? Or to a face-to-face group class?
• Resources: Once you know which resources are available, you can either work with them and incorporate them into your syllabus, or you can develop and source your own resources to match your syllabus needs.
• Assessment: Understanding the purpose of the course will help shape your methods for assessment. You can then plan for appropriate assessment opportunities at different intervals of the course.
• External opportunities for language practice: The amount of exposure that the students have to English outside the class can be another factor that you have to consider.
• Intensive and extensive courses: The type of course affects the amount of material you could cover in a given time period and will influence the individual weekly study plan.
• Syllabus foundation: If you have to base your syllabus around a coursebook, you can adapt and supplement lessons with suitable materials that you have sourced.

Question 2

Steps involved in using a needs analysis to create an effective course syllabus.

Answer 2

1. Conduct a needs analysis: This involves gathering information about the students’ language proficiency levels, their backgrounds, their reasons for learning English, and their future language requirements.

2. Analyze the needs analysis result data: Analyze the data collected from the needs analysis to identify the gaps and prioritize the language skills and areas that require the most attention.

3. Develop learning outcomes: These outcomes should be specific, realistic, and achievable within the course’s duration.

4. Design the syllabus: Structure the syllabus according to the identified learning outcomes. Divide the course into modules or units, each targeting specific language skills or areas. Decide on the sequencing and pacing of the content, considering the learners’ proficiency levels and the logical progression of skills. Include a variety of engaging activities and assessments to ensure a balanced and comprehensive learning experience.

5. Refine your syllabus according to your student’s needs, if necessary: Before implementing your course syllabus, reflect on your class, their language proficiency, their goals, and the overall aims of the course.

Question 3

What is a negotiated syllabus?

Answer 3

The term “negotiated syllabus” means that the learning content of a course is discussed and negotiated between the teacher and the learners. The needs and wishes of the learner are combined with the expertise, subject knowledge, and advice of the teacher.